Cumberland County Launches Special Registry for Dementia and Autism Care

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) – The recently launched program aims to aid law enforcement in recognizing, finding, and supporting individuals within the community who have been diagnosed with autism, dementia, or other specific conditions.

"I am hopeful that someday this will save a life, and if it saves just one life, all the efforts we've put into this will have been worthwhile," stated Sgt. Keith Stambaugh from the Silver Spring Township Police Department.

A long time ago, Sergeant Stambaugh was working when he came across an older lady who had dementia.

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"Truly uncertain about her destination, genuinely unaware of her origin, unable to provide any emergency contact details, and possessed minimal data to assist me," stated Sergeant Stambaugh.

Sergeant Stambaugh mentions that he dedicated roughly two hours attempting to determine her identity.

"That really stood out to me. There has to be a more effective approach," stated Sergeant Stambaugh.

Currently in Cumberland County, the county has teamed up with the Simple Tracking System. You have the option to enroll individuals who may have conditions affecting their mental capability and development, along with those inclined to wander off.

"This isn't intended to stigmatize," stated Sean McCormack, the Cumberland County District Attorney.

Law enforcement can utilize the registry to access the details you furnish, aiding in getting that individual to safety. The information requested typically encompasses a photograph of the person, their full name, residential address, emergency contacts, medications they require, and their specific medical condition.

Sergeant Stambaugh stated, 'Understanding how to soothe someone, recognizing what will trigger their response and predicting their reaction alters everything. It's about making informed choices and being mindful of how we communicate with them and engage with them.'

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In cases where an individual cannot communicate verbally or does not recognize themselves, law enforcement may examine photographs. Authorities assert that this method will also prove beneficial when someone with autism, special needs, or dementia disappears since they would promptly possess an image to distribute to news outlets.

The aim is to expand this initiative across the entire state.

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